PREFATORY NOT 
IJ. S. Commission of Fish and Fisheries, 
Washington , I). C., February 23, 1898. 
The National Fishery Congress, which convened at Tampa, Florida, in 
January, 1898, pursuant to the call of the governor of Florida, was attended 
by a large number of persons prominently connected with the fisheries, fish- 
cultural work, scientific research, and general economic pursuits from all 
parts of the United States. Papers covering a wide range of subjects were 
presented, and some of them evoked considerable discussion. A number of 
special topics of timely importance were brought up, some of which formed 
the basis for formal resolutions. Of scarcely less consequence than the 
regular proceedings of the Congress was the opportunity afforded the dele- 
gates for the personal interchange of opinions and experiences. 
In order that a permanent record may be made of the work of the 
Congress, the Commission has undertaken the publication of the papers and 
an abstract of the proceedings, but in so doing assumes no responsibility for 
any opinions expressed. 
For the purpose of expediting the issuance of this report, it has been 
deemed advisable to utilize the Bulletin for 1897, although the proceedings 
more properly belong in the Bulletin for 1898, the printing of which will not 
begin for some months. 
George M. Bowers, 
Commissioner. 
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